Checking the VDH breeding standards for #Leonberger dogs I found this: "The Swabian lion is quite a big dog! With a weight of often well over 50 kilograms, it needs a corresponding counterpart at the other end of the leash. In other words, a dog-experienced person who knows how to train the self-confident giant accordingly."
So it recently happened that we had an afternoon walk together with my neighbours boys (8 and 2.5 y). The little one became more and more bored by just sitting in his stroller so I offered him to "help me holding Ellas leash". Oh yes!! So he grabbed the end of the leash, I backed up with my hand on too so nothing could happen to the tiny man. Why? Because as every dog Ella tends to sniff here and sniff there and whenever she finds something interesting, she will force her way to the interesting piece. Well - when I say "force" that means she gently pulls the leash hoping I will give in and let her. Sometimes I do, sometimes I do not - depends on the situation. However, I do have the power to dictate.
But now I was a bit concerned if she would do the same with that little kid on the other end of the leash so I secured.
Here comes the thing. She wouldn't pull at all!! My unbelievably sweet and gentle girl instantly realised what was on the other end now, slowed down and started to desperetely take care of the tiny boys security! She made slow-motion-steps, looked back every 5 seconds to make shure he is still there and doing finde. Oh my goodness, watching this my heart melted (as it does ten times a day because she is always so sweet anyways).
What are your experiences with giant dogs? Rough or gentle? How do you think about leaving those dogs with toddlers? Let me hear your opinion on that!
